Restrictions

"Don't go if you are a Disney fan and have any knowledge of the parks!" 4 years ago by mdktf

I have just returned from my honeymoon and we booked the tour as we are both huge Disney fans and really thought this would improve our knowledge. However, our 22 year old 'guide' who had only worked for the company for 6 years told us nothing we did not already know. Like in previous reviews they do talk about the windows on Main Street, and hidden Mickeys and signatures etc from Imagineers, but nothing new that we didnt already know. I have read countless books on the history and the magic of the Disney parks and at one point I felt like I was informing our guide. I was staggered to see how some apparent Disney fans were amazed by information that is readily available in books and on the internet?! I felt this was a huge waste of $$$ and time at the parks, much cheaper to buy The Hidden Magic of Disney book by Susan Venness, I really thought that you would reaaly get an insight into the working of the parks and a real behind the scenes look at the working of the rides etc, and yes there is an $8 lunch included! Not bad for $75 each!

"Amazing!" 4 years ago by

My parents and I took the tour October 2010, during MNSSHP. We have frequented Disney many times and this was a must see for us once we heard about it. I was not aware that lunch was included, so this was a bonus when we arrived! Lunch was delicious. The only negative is that you have to use a park admission as well as pay for your tour.

We took the earliest tour and entered the MK when no one else was around. We checked in and when the tour started, we strolled down Main Street, learning about the "show" and our tour guide pointed out all the different windows above the shops. To the right abotu halfway down Main Street, we sat and he asked us what our most favorite job would be on the WDW resort. As the park opened for the day, hundreds of people ran past where we were sitting.

Afterwards, we meandered down Main Street again and then rode Pirates and Jungle Cruise. Our guide told us all kinds of information that we would not have known. He pointed out some hidden Mickey's and threw in other tidbits. After we rode Pirates, we walked backstage to look at the parade floats. They were practicing for the Christmas parade and the old signs and stuff were so cool to see! Think Mickey's Birthdayland.

When we were walking backstage in Frontierland, we passed Jessie and Woody doing a meet and greet. While our guide was explaining that they have to be in character until the yellow line and can only take off their costumes after they get past the fence, Woody and Jessie took off their costumes and they were two men hankering for a cigarette! So glad they have plastic smiles on their faces. It just made us realize that even though they are always smiling, they are always waving and dancing too. That they actually have to do.

The Utilidors were amazing, even though our video kept skipping. When we were leaving the Utilidors, the afternoon parade came by on its way to Main Street, so we got a personal wave from all the cast members.

Overall, it made the magic even more special because you realize how much work actually goes into the flawless Disney experience. A must see!!

"Awesome!" 5 years ago by WASaMATTR

I was just at the Parks (10/2010) and did the Keys to the Kingdom Tour. Our tour guide (Scott - he brought along a wand) was great. Amazing Tour.

"A Great Tour" 5 years ago by RWilliams

Keys to the Kingdom is a great tour. Its full of interesting history about the Magic Kingdom and some glimpses of backstage areas. I've done the tour twice in the past two years and each time I learned something new. The experience is highly dependant on how good your guide is. The cost is a bit high but I think it would be worth it to any die-hard Disney fan. It is a long walking tour so be sure to wear comfortable footwear. Cameras and bags are not allowed, you'll be asked to rent a locker to store your belongings if you bring anything along. Lunch at Columbia Harbor House (30 minutes) is included as well.

More Information

Unlock the "keys" to the Magic Kingdom Park with this unique four and a half hour tour that allows our guests to take a special look at the history, heritage, and philosophies behind the Park.

Guests will hear intriguing stories of Walt Disney and how his legacy is still alive in the dedication and talent of today's Cast Members. This informative expedition takes Guests through the Park's themed lands as well as backstage to marvel at the operation that makes all the magic possible. Lunch is included at Columbia Harbor House (menu selections are made at check-in before the tour begins).